Mertesacker will leave Arsenal at the end of the season after eight years as the club’s academy manager.
The 41-year-old says he is wants to “explore something new” after helping the likes of Myles Lewis-Skelly, Max Dowman and Ethan Nwaneri through the academy over the last several years.
According to German newspaper Bild, “there are already interested parties” in the former defender, just days after his announcement.
The Metro report that he is being linked with the managing director role with the German Football Association (DFB), for which he is viewed as a “hot candidate” due to his vast experience.
Mertesacker has been crucial to Arsenal’s success behind the scenes and acted as an ambassador for the side on many occasions. His talents have obviously been noticed by the DFB, who are keen to bring him onboard.
However, the report adds that while Mertesacker plans to take an extended break from all football of at least a year, meaning the move to any potential roles may not come anytime soon.
Mertesacker said: “Arsenal is and will always be a very special club to me, so this was a difficult decision.
“I am very thankful for the trust the club put in me when transitioning from a first-team player directly into the role as head of academy.
“Now it is time for me to move on and explore something new and push myself even further.
“I remain focused on finishing the season strongly, continuing to nurture and develop our young talent and support a seamless transition until my very last day with the club.”